Identify deficiencies that may impact IEQ and/or sources of odor concerns. Typically includes the following depending on the nature of concern, but not limited to:
- interview/questionnaire of concern individual(s)
- inspection above drop ceiling (condition of roof deck, pipe insulation, return air plenum)
- inspection of ventilation system (operation of variable air volume box and outdoor air dampers, check controls, measurements of carbon dioxide, temperature and relative humidity, sources near outdoor air intake, measure return and supply air volume, cleanliness of coils, liner and condensate pan)
- inspection of exterior
- inspection below drop ceiling (housekeeping, sink and floor drain traps, signs of past and present moisture concern via visual and/or moisture meter, mold growth, ensure connection of current and capping of abandoned sanitary vents, odorizers, excessive plants and fabric items, identify potential pathways, and measure volatile organic compounds, carbon monoxide, and lighting)
Date(s) of Assessment: September 9 and 17, 2019
School initially reported the concern September 9, 2019.
The concern also involved an inquiry regarding the ventilation unit within the classroom not working. Building Services responded September 9 and found the fan coil unit (above drop ceiling) off due to a failed relay control. However, conditioned outdoor air should have been introduced by the dedicated outdoor air roof top unit serving the fan coil unit.
The spotting / speckling on the wall (room's corner wall right of the whiteboard) could not be visually determined to be mold growth. No signs of moisture intrusion were detected within the area. Mold growth was not observed on other inspected surfaces.
Mineral salts and blistering paint were observed on the exterior block wall left of the exit door.
On the visit September 9, 2019, the room temperature was 78 degrees with a relative humidity of 53%. A carbon dioxide measurement was taken to assess the introduction of outdoor air via ventilation to address comfort (odors and stuffiness). The measurement was 929 parts per million (ppm) which was acceptable (outdoor air level (was 422 ppm) + 700 ppm). The room was occupied by 15 individuals at the time of the measurement.
A data logger recording temperature and relative humidity was placed in the room from September 9 - 7, 2019. The trend of the relative humidity was acceptable (below 60%) along with the temperature (75-78 degrees one day when unit was not yet repaired and 73-74 degrees after the repair).
Building Services repaired fan coil unit.
The speckled matter on the wall was disinfected / cleaned. The school is to contact the Office of Environment should the speckling return.